Wednesday, April 23, 2025  

Today's Scripture
1 Corinthians 15:19–26

If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died. For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being; for as all die in Adam, so all will be made alive in Christ. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father, after he has destroyed every ruler and every authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. (NRSV)

Reflection

The concept of “first fruits” is easy to grasp, even if you can’t get geraniums to grow on the patio. The first pieces of the harvest — the first gathering of wheat or fruit — are offered up to God in thanksgiving. After that, and because of that, harvests will continue. If the first fruits are not offered, no harvest will happen, in that year or the years after. It’s the mechanism that ensures the harvest.

Likewise, Christ’s resurrection is a first fruit, because it is the first offering to God. Without his first sacrifice and victory over death, there will be no victory over death for us. And after that, those who belong to Christ will be able to enter paradise. “Each in its own order.”

If Jesus’ sacrifice hadn’t happened — if he hadn’t conquered death — then what are we left with? Principles of how to treat one another, or ethics, according to the philosophers. Parables to ponder. Some hazy history.

But with his death and resurrection? With his victory over death? The harvest to follow is beyond our understanding!

Prayer
Heavenly Creator, there are so many beauties to life and faith, as well as many mysteries. Help me never to forget the first fruits and the harvest that Jesus’ resurrection has ensured for me. Amen. 

Written by Jim Garner, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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